The integration of plastic packaging into the circular economy has reached another milestone in Europe. Drawing on the scientific results of more than 20 comprehensive testing campaigns, RecyClass has updated its Design for Recycling guidelines and Recyclability Evaluation Protocols. The new recommendations, derived from extensive testing throughout 2025, reflect real-world sorting and recycling conditions and cover all major plastic packaging streams.
One of the most significant barriers to the packaging industry’s sustainability transition has been the lack of unified, scientifically backed recyclability standards. The latest guidelines from RecyClass, developed through extensive industry testing, are designed to fill this technological gap and accelerate the adoption of highly recyclable plastic packaging across the European market.
Scientific Results from Over 20 Testing Campaigns
Rigorous research forms the foundation of the RecyClass updates. The organization incorporated the findings of more than 20 independent testing campaigns into the new guidelines, while also revising the Recyclability Evaluation Protocols to guarantee clarity and repeatability.
Paolo Glerean, Chairman of RecyClass, highlighted the significance of the results:
“These new findings reinforce the importance of continuous, science-based testing to support a truly circular plastic economy.”
Flexible Packaging: A Paradigm Shift in Ink Usage
Regarding flexible packaging materials, the new guidelines introduce significant and long-awaited technological clarifications. RecyClass issued official recommendations concerning the electron beam treatment of polyethylene (PE) films and explicitly confirmed the full compatibility of PVB-based inks for both PE and polypropylene (PP) films.
However, the biggest breakthrough lies in the regulatory modification for printing on clear films. Following two years of extensive testing and the examination of various ink concentrations, RecyClass has changed the basis for certification. Under the new guidance, the assessment of ink usage no longer focuses on printing coverage, but strictly on the percentage of the ink relative to the total weight of the packaging. According to the organization, this shift represents a historic milestone in unlocking the full circular potential of clear films.
PET Recycling: Compatible Closures and Sealants
Investigations conducted within the PET packaging stream have also clarified crucial industry questions. During the tests, experts officially confirmed the full compatibility of PET closures used for PET bottles.
For sealants used on clear PET thermoformed trays (thermoforms), the organization introduced new classifications:
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EVA (ethylene-vinyl acetate) materials are now classified in the fully compatible category.
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Copolyesters, based on the testing results, have been designated as non-compatible materials.
Ongoing Investigations in 2026
In its press release, RecyClass emphasizes that aligning industry functions with increasingly modern recycling technologies requires continuous effort. Consequently, new testing campaigns have already commenced in 2026, with more scheduled to launch throughout the year. The organization encourages all players within the value chain to join the initiative, thereby ensuring a harmonized, reliable, European-level evaluation of plastic packaging circularity.
Official Sources and References:
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Original News Source (RecyClass Official Website): RecyClass updates packaging recyclability recommendations following extensive testing in 2025